Children usually progress in a natural, predictable sequence from one developmental milestone to the next. But each child grows and gains skills at his or her own pace. Some children may be advanced in one area, such as language. But they may be behind in another area, such as sensory and motor development.
Milestones usually are grouped into five major areas: physical growth, cognitive development, emotional and social development, language development, and sensory and motor development.
Physical growth and development
Most children by age 8:
- Grow about 2.5 in. (6 cm) and gain about 7 lb (3 kg) in a year.
- May have arms and legs that seem too long for their bodies.
- Lose about four baby teeth each year. These baby teeth are replaced by permanent teeth.
Thinking and reasoning (cognitive development)
Most children by age 8:
- Know how to count by 2s (2, 4, 6, 8, and so on) and 5s (5, 10, 15, 20, and so on).
- Know what day of the week it is. They don't usually know the full date and year.
- Can read simple sentences.
- Can complete simple single-digit addition and subtraction problems (such as 1 + 8, 7 + 5, 6 - 2, 4 - 3).
- Can tell the difference between right and left.
- Have a black-and-white perspective much of the time. Things are either great or awful, ugly or beautiful, right or wrong. They focus on one trait or idea at a time. This makes it hard for them to understand complex issues.
Emotional and social development
Most children by age 8:
- Enjoy being around their friends. The opinions of their friends become more and more important. And peer pressure may become an issue.
- Gain a sense of security from being involved in regular group activities, such as 4-H or Scouts.
- Are more likely to follow rules they help create.
- Have quickly changing emotions. Angry outbursts are common. Many children are critical of others, especially of their parents. They may seem dramatic and sometimes rude.
- Are impatient. They like immediate gratification. They find it hard to wait for things they want.
- Are interested in money. Some children may become obsessed with saving and plans about earning and spending money.
Language development
Most children by age 8:
- Have well-developed speech and use correct grammar most of the time.
- Become interested in reading books. For some children, it's a favorite activity.
- Are still working on spelling and grammar in their written work. Their writing is not as advanced as their speech.
Sensory and motor development
Most children by age 8:
- Tie their shoelaces.
- Draw a diamond shape.
- Draw a person with 16 features.
- Become increasingly skilled in hobbies, sports, and active play.
Current as of: March 1, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
John Pope MD - Pediatrics
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Louis Pellegrino MD - Developmental Pediatrics
Susan C. Kim MD - Pediatrics